House Ways and Means Chair Joey Sarte Salceda (Albay, 2nd District) announced the approval of the Unnumbered Substitute Bill to several House Bills aimed at expanding the privileges and benefits of senior citizens. The proposed measure amends Republic Act No. 7432, also known as “An Act to Maximize the Contribution of Senior Citizens to Nation Building, Grant Benefits, and Special Privileges.”
“Today, the House Committee on Ways and Means approved the comprehensive senior citizens benefit act. This is the culmination of months of work by the joint committees on Ways and Means, Senior Citizens, and Disability Affairs,” Salceda stated.
Key provisions of the bill include:
Removal of the Booklet Requirement: The bill institutionalizes the removal of the booklet requirement for availing senior discounts, ensuring this progress cannot be reversed by future administrative issuances.
Tollway Discount: A ₱2,000 capped discount for senior citizens using expressways, balancing accessibility with safeguards against abuse.
Utility Discounts: An increase in water and electricity discounts from 5% to 15%, now applicable to consumption of up to 200 kWh (up from 100 kWh).
Expanded Discounts on Transport and Online Sales: Senior citizens will receive discounts on transportation network vehicles (e.g., Grab, Angkas) and a 20% discount on online purchases.
Tax Incentives for Businesses: Businesses can use the cost of VAT discounts as a deduction from gross income, distributing the cost between consumers and the government.
“This bill reflects the progress made by the joint committee under the Speaker’s direction and is the result of months of consultations,” Salceda noted.
He expressed confidence in the bill’s passage through Congress, even during a lame-duck session. “As a consensus bill backed by comprehensive discussions, this measure is expected to secure approval,” Salceda concluded.
The proposed legislation seeks to solidify and expand senior citizens’ benefits, addressing their needs while balancing economic sustainability.